New DOTr chief Dizon slammed over ‘contrived’ PUV modernization push

February 21, 2025 , 05:54 PM

(February 21, 2025) – A transportation group on Friday criticized new Department of Transportation (DOTr) secretary Vince Dizon over his plan to push through with the public transport modernization program (PTMP).

Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) reiterated its stance that the program would negatively affect drivers and operators of public utility vehicles (PUV).

“Transport workers have never opposed development or modernization per se. However, what we vehemently oppose, especially small operators, is this contrived ‘modernization’ that displaces the livelihoods of thousands of small operators and drivers by dismantling single-unit franchises and imposing overpriced imported vehicles,” said PISTON in a statement.

In a media conference today, Dizon affirmed the DOTr’s plan to implement the PTMP to help mitigate the country’s traffic woes.

“Hindi puwede ring iwanan na lang natin sa kinagisnan natin ang ating jeepneys at iba pang nandiyan sa kalye,” said Dizon, who replaced the now-retired Jaime Bautista.

The PTMP, previously called the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, was launched in 2017 to replace old jeepneys with modern units. Under the program, drivers and operators must consolidate under cooperatives or corporations to qualify for a fresh seven-year franchise—provided they purchase at least 10 modern jeepneys.

It has faced repeated delays, mainly due to the high cost of modern jeepneys, which range from P1.7 million to P3.3 million per unit.

The lack of finalized route plans—an issue under the jurisdiction of local government units—has also contributed to the setbacks.

PISTON accused the government of coercing drivers and operators into compliance by threatening to revoke their franchises. Last September, the DOTr reported that 83% had consolidated.

“If the DOTr is serious about modernizing public transport, it must begin steps toward nationalizing the sector by seriously reviewing and terminating all privatization contracts that undermine the efficiency and affordability of public transport,” added PISTON.

Last August, Pres. Bongbong Marcos Jr. rejected a request from senators to suspend the implementation of the PTMP.

(PM)

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